Chelsea advanced to the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup with a composed 2–0 victory over South American champions Fluminense at MetLife Stadium. The standout of the night was Joao Pedro, who scored twice against his former club in a memorable full debut.

The 22-year-old forward opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a precise strike from outside the penalty area. In a show of respect, Pedro chose not to celebrate. His second goal came shortly after the restart, latching onto a pass from Enzo Fernández and finishing powerfully under the bar.

Despite spirited efforts from Fluminense, Chelsea remained organized and composed. Marc Cucurella made a crucial clearance off the line, and the Blues were spared a penalty scare when a VAR check overturned the referee’s original decision. Chelsea’s midfield, led by Moisés Caicedo and Fernández, dictated the tempo.

Played in sweltering heat exceeding 35°C, the match tested both teams physically. Chelsea’s tactical discipline and fitness ultimately gave them the edge, allowing them to see out the match without serious threat in the closing stages.

Chelsea will now face the winner of the other semi-final between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final. With Joao Pedro already making an impact, head coach Enzo Maresca will feel confident heading into the decisive clash.

Asante Kotoko staged a dramatic comeback to clinch the 2025 GHALCA President’s Cup, defeating Hearts of Oak 2–1 at the Accra Sports Stadium. The Porcupine Warriors claimed their ninth President’s Cup crown, leaving their rivals to rue missed opportunities in a fiercely contested clash.

Hearts took the lead in the 23rd minute when Hamza Issah capitalised on goalkeeper Mohammed Camara’s error, tapping in from close range after Camara spilled a cross  . Despite the early setback, Kotoko responded early in the second half. Shortly after kickoff, Peter Amidu Acquah delivered a dangerous ball into the box that deflected off defender Konadu Yiadom for an own goal, levelling the contest.

Moments later, Kwame Opoku seized on a defensive lapse and finished calmly from close range in the 53rd minute to give Kotoko the lead  . The match then swung into dramatic territory. Hearts had a last-gasp penalty, but goalkeeper Camara redeemed himself by saving Emmanuel Amankwah’s spot kick, preserving Kotoko’s advantage.

Tactical Insights & Standout Performers

Kotoko’s high-press approach, orchestrated by coach Prosper Narteh Ogum, disrupted Hearts’ rhythm and forced early errors from the away side. The midfield trio controlled the tempo, while defender Kwame Opoku contributed crucial interventions and Opoku’s goal delivered a decisive edge.

What This Means

The victory extends Kotoko’s unbeaten run over Hearts to six matches in high-stakes fixtures and bolsters their reputation in President’s Cup history  . The win also sets the tone for Kotoko as they look ahead to the upcoming Champion of Champions clash in August. For Hearts of Oak, late drama and wasted chances will trigger tactical introspection as they prepare for the league campaign.

Arsenal have reached a verbal agreement with Sporting CP to sign Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres on a five-year deal. The transfer is reported to be worth €80 million (approximately £69 million), potentially making him the most expensive Swedish player ever. Personal terms have been agreed, and the clubs are in advanced negotiations over the final package.

Gyökeres, 27, arrives after consecutive Primeira Liga titles and an extraordinary scoring record. He netted 54 goals in 52 appearances last season with Sporting. He has agreed a five-year contract and is reportedly prepared to resist returning to Sporting training until the transfer is finalized.

A Striker Who Fits Arteta’s Vision

Standing at 1.89 m, Gyökeres combines physical presence with clinical finishing and intelligent movement. These attributes align well with Mikel Arteta’s attacking philosophy. His ability to link play and press aggressively should complement Arsenal’s forward line and offer a fresh dimension to their offensive setup.

Sporting’s decision to lower their valuation in recent days has helped advance the deal. Arsenal have made securing a top striker a priority this summer and are also working on other key signings.

With personal terms agreed, the transfer now depends on final approval between Arsenal and Sporting. Gyökeres is expected to join the squad for pre-season in preparation for a highly anticipated campaign.